UV (Ultra-Violet) sterilizers are used in aquariums and ponds to kill bacteria and parasites as well as help eliminate unwanted free floating algae. The effectiveness of a UV sterilizer is determined by the power (displayed in watts) of the lamp, the "dwell time" (the length of time the target organism is exposed to the UV light) and the distance from the light source to the target organism.
1. ESU Turbo-Twist UV Sterilizers
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This unit consists of a quartz sleeve, surrounded by the unique "Turbo-Twist" flow design, which moves the tank water around the 9 watt UV bulb from 3 to 12 times (depending on the model) per pass through the unit. The Turbo-Twist can be used as a hang on or in line unit. Available in 3 models: 3X is for up to 125 gallon aquariums with a maximum flow rate of 200 gph and has an overall overall length of 11". The 6X is for up to 250 gallon aquariums, with a maximum flow rate of 400 gph and has a 13" overall length. The 12X is for up to 500 gallon aquariums, has a maximum flow rate of 800 gph and is 15" in overall length.
2. Pentair Lifegard Aqua Step UV Sterilizer
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This UV sterilizer features an internal step design which directs water back and forth across the UV light, tripling the dwell time through the 10 watt unit. Powerhead or pump required, which is not included.
3. Ocean Clear 375 Filter with 18W UV
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The Ocean Clear 375 Filter features an 18 Watt UV filter inside of a 25 micron pleated filter. Each unit is rated for aquariums or ponds up to 500 gallons. An external pump with a flow rate of 500-1600 gph is required, but not included. Manufacturer recommends using a pump at the higher end.
4. Tetra UV 5 Clarifier
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The Tetra UV 5 Clarifier consists of a 5 watt UV bulb, inside of a quartz sleeve, protected by a ABS plastic shell. The unit can be attached to an external water supply (maximum flow of 300 gph) via 1/2" or 3/4" vinyl tubing. Designed for aquariums up to 100 gallons in size.
5. Coralife Turbo Twist UV Sterilizer
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The Coralife Turbo Twist UV Sterilizer contains a quartz glass sleeve with a 9 watt compact fluorescent U.V. lamp around which the aquarium water is passed 3 times. The Turbo Twist can be installed vertically outside the aquarium or sump using the included bracket and suction cup, or in a horizontal position by attaching the bracket with screws to a fixed surface. The size is 11" long x 3 3/4" diameter and is designed for tanks up to 125 gallons.
6. Gamma UV Sterilizer
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Current's Gamma UV Sterilizer forces water into the UV chamber by the Spiral Injector design, which causes it to swirl around the special T5 bulb within 0.5" of the lamp. This ultra-close, long-time exposure makes this an efficient and effective UV unit. The water-resistant design can be installed in two different ways: inline or self-contained. Pump not included.
